In recent days, the media has been misled by erroneous content from the Kaduna State House of Assembly ad-hoc committee, which investigated the Governor Nasir El-Rufai administration from 29 May 2015 to 29 May 2023. The committee made unfounded allegations against the former governor and some members of his administration, including the current Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Mrs. Shizzer Nasara Bada, a dedicated and hardworking public servant.
The attempt by the committee to escalate the attack on the first female finance commissioner in the state has drawn public scrutiny and criticism. Their actions are considered dangerous to our democracy, personal, and baseless. Such conduct is far removed from the ideals of a civilised legislature, which should focus on creating legislation for the state’s development.
Their intent is not only to attack her personality but also to question her professional competence and undermine her career, to instigate a change in leadership at the ministry. This behaviour reflects a fear of women who have excelled in traditionally male-dominated roles, perpetuating outdated and discriminatory attitudes.
The tactics used are typical of propaganda, infused with “conspiracy theories” to erode public confidence in an individual’s abilities. This involves making dishonest assertions and fallacies to damage reputations, and using their official positions to intimidate, much like Pharisees.
Do not be discouraged by these false accusations, our dear finance commissioner. The threats directed at this “woman of steel,” who has consistently faced risks in performing her duties as an accomplished public servant, will fail. Mrs. Bada has adhered to the principles that have long guided her professional conduct throughout her career as evident in her records of service overseas.
Her career spans many decades, managing human and capital resources across various fields in both private and public sectors without blemish. At the Royal Bank of Scotland (UK), Nehemiah Housing Projects (UK), O2 UK Ltd, and Oasis International Centre, UK, she served with integrity and received commendations. These international experiences prepared her for significant roles back home at the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), etc.
Mrs. Bada was called to serve the state due to her extensive national and international experience and connections. In every agency she worked, her expertise was profoundly impactful. Her appointment as the first female accountant general and subsequently the first female finance commissioner earned her numerous awards and recognitions to the state.
No one is against probing the previous administration, but it must not be done with the clear objective of smearing the hard-earned reputation of a public administrator who has served her state and nation meritoriously. The probe seems inconclusive and targets select officeholders while shielding others who are still serving.
As the press statement signed by four former commissioners on behalf of others in the El-Rufai administration noted, the committee’s report was influenced unfairly against some people, including Mrs. Bada. The consequence is the uproar it has generated.
The attacks on Bada must stop. As a woman and mother who carries the responsibility of coordinating the state’s fiscal policy, the least our legislators can do is create laws that support her many positive innovations in the ministry. The distractions provoked by the report are unnecessary.
Jimmy Richard,
Abuja
